MI ROWING CLUB
MIRC - LET’S GET ON THE WATER
INTRODUCTION
Mercer Island Rowing Club (MIRC) is a non-profit organization that cultivates a deeper connection to our environment and community by enabling individuals of all ages and abilities access to rowing. Founded in 2024 by Lauren Alexander, MIRC emerged from strong community interest, as indicated in the PROS Plan, which highlighted demand for a rowing program on Mercer Island.
MARCH 2023
TARGET AUDIENCE
MERCER ISLAND RESIDENTS, YOUNG AND OLD, ALL ABILITIES
MARCH 2023
CHANNELS
INTEREST FORM DONATION
MEMBERSHI
P
SOCIAL MEDIA
NON PROFIT GUIDESTAR
INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK WEBSITE
BENEVITY
HISTORY & LEGACY
Founded in 2024, Mercer Island Rowing Club was established when Lauren Alexander moved to the island from Vashon Island and realized there was no rowing club.
Community surveys revealed that 44% of residents expressed interest in rowing (PROS Plan, p. 203), and the city recognized a longterm vision for a rowing facility (p. 352). MIRC has since gained strong endorsements, including guidance from the Pocock Foundation, and has rapidly built its infrastructure.
TIMELINE & MILESTONES
• 2024 – Established non-profit structure, including registration, board of directors, and initial funding strategies.
• 2025 – Outreach, planning, and fundraising, including attending community events and securing funding sources.
• 2026 – Execute pilot rowing program in partnership with the City of Mercer Island at Luther Burbank Park.
• 2027 – Launch of MIRC’s youth rowing program.
• 2028 – Expansion of youth program and introduction of an adult rowing program.
• 2029 – Full-scale rowing program with youth and adult participation reaching maximum capacity.
FINANCIAL GOALS & SUSTAINABILITY PLAN
To successfully establish MIRC, we are seeking funding for:
• Facility Upgrades – Implementing an initial semi-permanent boathouse solution donated by the Alexander family (40x70 ft tent structure) to last up to 10 years.
• Equipment & Infrastructure – Anchorage Rowing Association has donated a starter fleet, including 2 eights, 1 four, a rowing shell trailer, and oars.
• Coaching & Safety – Ensuring we have certified coaches, proper insurance, and safety protocols in place.
DONATION TIERS
To recognize the generosity of our donors, we have established the following donation tiers:
• Founder's Circle ($25,000+) – Permanent recognition at our facility, exclusive club access, and VIP event invitations.
• Champion ($10,000 - $24,999) – Recognition on our website and event materials, plus invitation to special events.
• Patron ($5,000 - $9,999) – Name displayed on donor wall and acknowledgment in annual reports.
• Supporter ($1,000 - $4,999) – Personalized thank-you letter and club merchandise.
• Friend ($500 - $999) – Name included in supporter newsletter and annual donor appreciation event invitation.
• Contributor ($100 - $499) – Recognition on our donor webpage.
STRENGTH OF LEADERSHIP
MIRC is led by a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers who bring decades of experience in rowing, coaching, and nonprofit management. Our leadership team includes:
• Lauren Alexander, Founder – Competitive rower with deep ties to the PNW rowing community.
• Matt Hall – Treasurer -- MD, rowing
• Shannon Leversedge – A diverse group of passionate individuals supporting club operations and fundraising. Rowing --
• Julie Love - Creative thinker, Product Leader Microsoft. Rowed for MIT
• Jessica Apodaca - Owner of successful company, marketing
• Diane Tien – Community engagement leader with a track record of making good things happen.
EXECUTION STRATEGY
MIRC is methodically building its programs to ensure long-term success and sustainability:
• 2024: Establish Non-Profit Structure (Complete)
• 2025: Outreach, planning, and fundraising
• 2026: Execute pilot program, including summer camps and boat rentals
• 2027: Launch youth program with structured training and competition
• 2028: Expand youth program and introduce adult rowing program
• 2029: Full integration of youth and adult programs, serving up to 100 rowers
LONG-TERM VISION
MIRC aims to:
• Serve 100 athletes at any given time.
• Maintain a mix of small and large boats, balancing competition and recreation.
• Ensure 5% of boats are privately owned while prioritizing community access.
• Secure a permanent rowing facility as part of the City of Mercer Island’s long-term capital improvements.
BIG DREAMS...ONE DAY...
Imagine a boat house looking over the lake. Food and drinks are available to enjoy in the plentiful seating. On the walls are photos and memorabilia of races and athletes and community events celebrating the joy of being out on the water. We have identified a location and can see the vision. We welcome you to join us on the water, at the table and together make this dream a reality.
WHY INVEST IN MIRC?
• Proven Demand – Over 250 community members have expressed interest, with city recognition in the PROS Plan.
• Sustainable Growth – Intentional, phased development ensures program longevity and financial stability.
• Endorsed by Experts – The Pocock Foundation’s involvement ensures best practices in rowing program execution.
• Community Impact – Creating accessible opportunities for youth and adults to participate in rowing and develop lifelong skills.
JOIN US IN SHAPING THE FUTURE
We invite funders, sponsors, and community partners to be part of MIRC’s journey. Your support ensures that our club continues to thrive and inspire the next generation of rowers.
LET’S GO!